South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore (21) was injured on this play Saturday. - Larry McCormack/The Tennessean
South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says running back Marcus Lattimore told him he will be back on the field for the Gamecocks.
Spurrier spoke to a crowd of more than 1,000 players, students and fans who turned out Monday to wish Lattimore a speedy recovery and a happy 21st birthday.
Lattimore dislocated his right knee and severely damaged several ligaments in a horrific injury Saturday against Tennessee.
Spurrier said Lattimore sent him a text saying he isn't done playing for South Carolina. Doctors have told the junior his injury could take more than a year of recovery, keeping him off the field until the 2014 season.
Lattimore watched the rally over the Internet.